Mold forces migration of students

ATHENS, GA — A leaky steam pipe that caused mold growth has forced several students in Mell Hall to seek new homes, according to Red and Black, an independent student newspaper serving the University of Georgia.

One student said she noticed an orange-brown mold taking over her dorm wall and poking out from behind her posters; maintenance attempted to eradicate it with Formula 409 cleaner but the problem continued, the story stated.

Rick Gibson, director of Residential Hall Education and Services, said: "To the best of my knowledge, no one is at risk. It''s not like there is this huge mold problem in Mell Hall or any other halls. At certain points in the year the moisture can lead to mold. It''s not black mold."

The problem began during Thanksgiving break, after which many students were told any mold problems in their rooms would be fixed; however, the mold got worse and remediation will not be completed until mid-February at the earliest, the story noted.

Some students forced to move off campus because of the debacle have petitioned for rent compensation; their petitions would be considered, though not necessarily accepted, the story added.